Just a quick post today sharing this summer work outfit. As mentioned in my video, I have been loving saturated, jewel-toned colors this summer. As soon as I got my paws on Khatu's slinky scarf-print blouse, I knew it'd be the perfect complement for this vibrant skirt.
This skirt was yet another happy find from Savers thrift store - for a mere $2.99 plus extra 30% off...I had been wanting a garment in linen, the ultimate casual fabric for summer, but didn't want to shell out too much for something so wrinkle-prone.

Crazy enough, this skirt is a size 7 and fit me almost perfectly at the waist. The hips were noticeably too wide, so I slimmed them down from the inside and tapered the bottom. After wearing this a few times, I realize it needs a little more DIY work at the waist and/or hem to achieve the perfect fit.

As some of you may know, I switched jobs earlier this year in the midst of a stressful time. Since then, I have been so much happier career-wise, but have found much less time to write posts, answer reader questions, and read my favorite blogs. Thank you to both loyal and new readers for stopping by every so often, and for keeping me abreast of good deals and finds!

66 comments:

Happy to hear that you're enjoying your new job! And I think it's crazy that the skirt was a size 7 and fit you in the waist - just another example of the crazy size inflation that's happened over the past few decades!

The skirt looks great Jean - and nice alterations, too. It reminds me of the teal Ann Taylor silk skirt I thrifted last Fall! Don't you just love finding this stuff so cheap and just spending a little bit of time to make it fit well!? Saves so much money!

I love that bright blue you're wearing Jean!It's such a fun color and absolutely perfect for summer :)I think the way you styled it is absolutely perfect for the office. Your skirt is fun and vivacious but the conservative cut tones things down a little. When you add on the printed silk button down and amazing Hermes belt, you make everything look so classy and elegant.

I cannot believe that you got that amazing skirt for only $3! I've heard tons of great stuff about Savers but have yet to go to one. Maybe it's time to track one down so I can dig for some awesome savings :)

That blouse is absolutely gorgeous and pairs so well with the rest of your outfit. The bright blue in your blouse works with the color of your skirt (which now that I think about it, is more of a turquoisey color). In addition, the periwinkle color matches with your purse and the bracelet you're wearing.

Yay for matching and for awesome bright colors!

Have a lovely day Jean (and anyone else who sees this comment)! :)

~Alice

P.S. Sorry I posed my blog link on my comment the other day! I saw your little note asking us not to but I'm just so used to attaching my blog to my name. It won't happen again! <3 <3

This outfit is one of my all-time favorite outfits from you! It actually makes me want to dig out my old emerald j. crew skirt and do something with it (pair it with a fun print, perhaps). Khatu's scarf print top is the perfect companion for your thrifted skirt. And the $3(!!!) bracelet adds something delicate to the outfit. Very well done! ;)

Jean, oh how you inspire me to dress better and play with color! I wish I had a sewing machine (and knew how to use one :P) and that there was a Savers near me (NYC). Love the styling of the outfit! Your posts may not come often, but when they do...quality content :)

Hi Jean,you look absolutely fantastic! The turquoise color suits you so well! LOVE! And what I really admire is your courage for doing even complicated alterations! The skirt fits like made for you now! All in all beautiful Jean!Have a fantastic weekend!CheersCori ; )

I love how you have an eye for potential thrifted items, Jean! The jade color looks great and you're so talented that you can hem everything yourself! Glad to hear that you're happier with your new job.

Wow, you really hit the jackpot with that skirt! It fits you quite well in these photos, but I suppose only you would know where it fits and where it doesn't. Even your nails match perfectly! Great colour choices for this outfit.

Absolutely gorgeous, and the perfect look for this hot East Coast summer!

I was wondering if you know of/use anyone in Boston who is good at reconditioning & cleaning leather items...I have a handbag I'd like to get fixed up and any suggestions you had would be greatly appreciated!

That's wonderful to hear that you're enjoying your new job! I admire the way you were able to balance your career with studying for an intensive exam.

There are so many things I like about this blog entry. Your hair looks elegant when it's curled in this style and the blue and turquoise colours are aesthetic. I wish I knew how to style my hair like yours.

Gorgeous! I just got my first sewing machine and am slowly teaching myself how to use it - my first project is some simple panel curtains, but I'd love to start tailoring clothes! Jewel tones look great on you.

Great DIY work on the skirt; it looks very good on you :-)! and your hair looks beautiful!! Please show us show you did your hair on your youtube channel! And, happy to hear you're enjoying your new job :))

glad to know you're enjoying your new job! i know how much your every day job can affect how you feel every day when you roll out of bed... :) love your classy outfit as always, i wish i was as good a seamstress as you are!